Initiative by Jacob York, Aurora Theatre

CRITIC’S PICK:
Through Sun., Apr. 19

Initiative by Jacob York, Aurora Theatre — Dave is only 29 and he’s grappling with a cancer diagnosis. His favorite thing in the world is playing Dungeons & Dragons with a small group of friends. The existential threat posed by the disease is ameliorated by the players as they create “memories” for Dave to imagine, but will likely never experience. “‘Initiative’ is a beautiful appreciation of friendship, and what friends will do for one another,” says Michael King, a director of the YES Festival at Northern Kentucky University. “The story of Dave’s struggle with cancer, and the way his friends use a role playing game to provide him with a lifetime full of memories, is full of both loss and laughter.” The ensemble cast features Cole Ferguson, Michelle Pokopac, Tyshawn Gooden, Avani Lesane, and Julio Zaconet Valentin; the production team is helmed by Ann-Carol Pence and Katie Chambers. Playwright Jacob York is also an actor (‘Your Pretty Face is Going to Hell’ on Adult Swim) and helped develop plays by rookie writers at Stage Door Theatre in Dunwoody. — Kevin C. Madigan